Hey folks, Should I be concerned? Looking forward to hearing from you all.
60 upvotes
3 Replies
Nicholas
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a lawyer, 28, moved here 7 years ago from Seattle. I've lived in Riverside and Meadowbrook, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Four distinct seasons
4. The people are generally better than expected - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The safety situation is reasonable and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for retirees. challenging vibes, walkable.
- Meadowbrook: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Seattle, everything felt excellent. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are developing. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $60K-$140K here.
**Final verdict:**
Would recommend to anyone considering it.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
38 upvotes
Andrew Martinez
From a safety perspective, it really depends on the area. Some neighborhoods are better than expected, others not so much. Do your research on specific streets.
9 upvotes
Cooper Hill
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a physical therapist who relocated here from San Diego about 12 years ago. The main reasons were a job opportunity and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Affordable housing options
- Diverse dining options
Cons that are real:
- Limited high-paying job options
- Far from beaches/mountains
Financially, we've found it hit or miss compared to where we came from. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts. Groceries are affordable, gas is hit or miss.
Socially, it's exactly what I was looking for. Definitely worth checking out..